change of scenery

American  

[cheynj uhv see-nuh-ree] / ˈtʃeɪndʒ əv ˈsi nə ri /

noun

1. a shift, usually temporary, from one’s ordinary surroundings to somewhere desirably different, as a shift from one’s daily routine in an office to a week’s vacation at the seashore.

   He’s been fly fishing every weekend since his doctor told him he needs a change of scenery.

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Etymology

Origin of change of scenery

First recorded in 1740–45

Example Sentences

This 95-year-old photographer was inspired to make art again by a change of scenery and a request.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

But where their previous schools saw disappointment, May saw a potentially unstoppable tandem that needed a change of scenery.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

He goes to the boathouse for his ablutions, walks his chihuahua around the marina and rides an electric skateboard into the nearby neighborhoods for a change of scenery.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 17, 2025

She could use some time alone, and Glenn could use a forced change of scenery — even if it’s under false pretenses.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2025

When we needed a change of scenery, we rode water taxis and walked along the Baltimore Harbor.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot